Lidge on the march early

Brad Lidge pitched the seventh inning and allowed a walk. Lidge is healthy in spring for the first time in years, and pitching coach Rich Dubee says that is as big an advantage as the closer has had in a while.

He has allowed two runs in three spring innings.

"He was a little erratic at times," Dubee said of Lidge's performance Saturday. "But his arm speed continues to improve, and that's a good sign. Like I've said before, Brad Lidge is on the mound early. This is a real early stage for Brad to be healthy. Usually, he's playing catch-up, and it's nice not to have to."

- Matt Gelb